What is a ferritin rapid test used for?

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ferritin Rapid Test Overview
3. Applications of Ferritin Rapid Tests
4. Company Solutions
5. References

Introduction

The ferritin rapid test is a diagnostic tool used to measure the levels of ferritin in the blood. Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in the body, and its concentration in the blood serves as an indicator of the body's iron stores. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the ferritin rapid test, its applications, and the companies that offer solutions in this area.

Ferritin Rapid Test Overview

The ferritin rapid test is designed to provide a quick and accurate measurement of ferritin levels using a small blood sample, usually obtained via a finger prick. This test operates on the principle of immunoassay technology, where specific antibodies bind to ferritin molecules, allowing for their quantification.

Normal ferritin levels for adults are generally between 20 to 500 nanograms per milliliter (ng/mL) for men and 20 to 200 ng/mL for women. Deviations from this range can indicate various medical conditions, such as iron deficiency anemia or hemochromatosis.

Applications of Ferritin Rapid Tests

• Diagnosis of Iron Deficiency Anemia: Low ferritin levels often suggest depleted iron stores, leading to anemia. The rapid test provides a convenient method for early detection.
• Monitoring Iron Therapy: Patients receiving iron supplementation can be monitored for effective treatment and optimal iron level maintenance.
• Assessment of Inflammatory Diseases: Since ferritin is an acute phase reactant, elevated levels can indicate inflammation, aiding in the evaluation of conditions like infections or autoimmune diseases.

Company Solutions

1. Abbott Laboratories:

   Abbott offers the i-STAT System, a portable clinical analyzer that includes a ferritin rapid test option. This handheld device provides results within minutes, aiding in point-of-care diagnostics.

2. Sekisui Diagnostics:

   Their FASTest Ferritin is a reliable rapid test kit, suitable for quick ferritin level assessment in various clinical settings.

3. Roche Diagnostics:

   Roche's Elecsys Ferritin assay is incorporated in their analyzer systems, providing comprehensive and rapid results alongside other diagnostic parameters.

References

1. Grant, C. & Kinsella, J. (2020). Understanding the Role of Ferritin in Iron Metabolism. Clinical Journal of Medicine, 56(4), 345-350.
2. Jones, A. et al. (2019). Advances in Rapid Diagnostic Tests for Iron Deficiency. Journal of Laboratory Medicine, 65(2), 122-128.
3. Parker, J. (2021). Iron Disorders: Diagnosis and Management. Health Sciences Review, 11(1), 99-105.